Aphex Twin has once again surprised fans by quietly sharing new material online. The influential electronic musician recently uploaded two previously unheard tracks to his long-running SoundCloud account, continuing a pattern of off-grid releases that have become a common feature in his relationship with listeners.
The tracks, titled ‘Zahl am1 live track 1’ and ‘Zahl am1 live track 1c f760m1 unfinshd,’ appear to be closely related versions of the same piece. Both recordings lean into the intricate, mechanical textures that have defined a lot of Richard D. James’ output, particularly his more experimental live material. As with many Aphex Twin uploads, the titles don’t offer much of a direct explanation, instead hinting at technical processes or performance notes.
The uploads arrived without any formal announcement, label backing, or promotional fanfare. Fans only noticed the tracks once they appeared on the James’ SoundCloud page, which has become an informal archive of unreleased works, alternate mixes, and live recordings stretching back several years. The more attentive Aphex Twin fans always manage to catch these uploads within minutes of their release.
Both tracks are accompanied by the same cover image: a photograph showing James with his partner while swimming in the sea.
In the description attached to the second track, James offered a rare personal note. He explained that many fans had been requesting this particular piece for years and that he finally decided to upload it. He also mentioned recent rainy weather in the UK and referenced the cover photo taken in Sicily. According to the description, the track was mixed on a Zähl mixer, and James suggested that the versions uploaded may not be final, hinting that higher-quality or alternate mixes could surface in the future if he locates them.
The new SoundCloud uploads follow a series of similar releases over recent years, during which Aphex Twin has used the platform to share rare recordings, live tracks, and experimental pieces. For fans, the appearance of new material, however understated, remains a significant event.
